ONE of the world's most respected music photographers is putting on an exhibition for the first time in his home city of Coventry.

Willenhall-born Steve Gullick has created some of the most famous images of rock stars and musicians of the past 20 years - and many are on show at the Tin Angel, in Spon Street, and Taylor John's House, at the Canal Basin, until March 26.

And the photographer, who grew up in Stoke, has pledged to give 50 per cent of all the exhibition proceeds to the two Coventry venues, which are financially struggling to keep their heads above water.

Iconic images of legendary figures like Neil Young, Lou Reed and Mark E Smith of The Fall are among those that have been framed in preparation for the exhibition by Tony Lakic at City Arts, just across the road from the Tin Angel in Spon Street.

And also featured are some of Gullick's most famous pieces - images of Kurt Cobain and Nirvana, who he formed a close relationship with in the early 90s.

The exhibition launch will coincide with a live performance by Gullick's band, Tenebrous Liar, alongside Coventry act Brendan Casey.

Rich Guy, owner of the Tin Angel and Taylor John's House, had booked Tenebrous Liar to play before, but hadn't realised it was fronted by the man considered the greatest rock photographer of his generation.

Rich said: "I didn't make the connection.

"Then I found out and started looking through his shots and realised he had done some of my favourite images, including a picture of Will Oldham, of Bonnie Prince Billy, for the cover of Masters And Everyone - one of my favourite albums of all time.

"He is doing this to support us, with 50 per cent of his profits.

"I never take commission from the exhibitions we have here but he said no, that's the deal.

"We have been on our knees for so long and he has given me a real morale boost.

"To have someone like that come and give a bit is a real lift.

"He is a great guy.

"People talk about the Coventry Walk of Fame - well he should be on it.

"This is an important national exhibition and I hope Coventry embraces it."